On the 22nd of August 1485 King Richard III lost both his crown and his life to Henry Tudor at the battle of Bosworth. This may well have been one of the most decisive battles in Bristish history but its historical significance was completely overshadowed by the real battle of Bosworth fought 535 years later at the Dixie Grammer School Astro pitch. Much more than the crown of England was at stake as the Whitefriars met the Greenfriars for game 4 of the legendary Centenary Challenge.
With the Whitefriars reigning with two wins under their belt, the Greens were looking, like Henry Tudor, to usurp the throne. The battle commenced with strong attacking play from both teams.
The Whites looked more dangerous on the attack but the Greens defence was resolute. With the score nil – nil at half time both teams made fresh plans of attack.
With the second half underway, the Greens were on the offensive but their efforts were repulsed and the Whites pushed home their advantage. A well worked short corner saw Issac Hiatt, slip the ball to Atticus Walton-Hayfield who delivered the coup-de-grace, giving the Whites a narrow lead.
Although the Greens pushed for an equaliser, the Whites carried the day, giving them a 3 games’ lead in the series.
The history of the Centenary Challenge, like the Wars of the Roses has many twists and turns and with at least 10 games still to play the winner’s crown is still up for grabs.